It’s ok to feel worried about going back into level two or three – remember that we have been here and got through this twice before. Just like those last two times, you’re not going through this alone.
Ben Birks Ang, Deputy Director for Programmes at the NZ Drug Foundation, advises people to “focus on what you can do to keep well – you don’t have to be perfect right now. Stay connected with people who care about you and who can support you.”
“It is normal to feel stressed, worried, or bored during this time. Try not to let alcohol or drugs be the only way you deal with these feelings.”
Programme Lead, Tumokai Morgan suggests “getting in touch with someone who cares about you. Let them know how you are going. You can try other ways of relaxing too like reading that book you’ve been leaving for later, getting stuck into that series you’ve been saving, taking up that hobby that you’ve been holding off for a while. It can help shift your focus away from doom scrolling”.
It is safest not to use drugs, especially during a global pandemic. But if people do decide to use drugs, having good hygiene practices is important to reduce the chances of catching or spreading Covid-19. This could be actions like washing hands, using clean equipment, avoiding sharing, and minimising contact with others.
If you know someone who experiences addiction, reach out to check that they are in a supportive environment. Encourage them to get extra support if needed and set a time later in the week to check back in with a zoom chat or phone call.
Addiction treatment services are still available, and many are offering online support.
- Contact the Alcohol Drug Helpline to talk and find support (Call 0800 787 797 or text 8681 for free).
- Needle exchanges are open. Find an outlet, or order online.
- AA and NA are using Zoom to meet. Find out more:
- For support with methamphetamine use, call 0800 METH HELP (0800 6384 4357)
- DrugHelp and The Level have information on how to be safer during lockdown, manage withdrawal, stay in recovery or support others.
- To find out what services are available in your area see service listed on health point.
Share:
Related See more
21 April 2023
Report: What we found at drug checking in 2022
Our findings from our first full year as a licensed drug checking provider.
22 March 2023
Your thoughts needed: Join our addictions workforce workshops
18 January 2023
Drug Foundation warns some LSD circulating is more dangerous drug
Drug checking services at Rhythm and Vines found potent psychedelic and stimulant, 25B-NBOH, sold as tabs of LSD.
25 March 2022
Who gets a conviction for drug possession, and who gets help?
Policy & advocacy manager Kali Mercier takes a look at new drug prosecution stats to see who is being impacted - and is it working?
See more articles about:
Harm reduction Addiction Treatment providers Being safer Online support News
Straight up guide for people who use drugs
The Level is for real people, in real life, whatever level they are at.
Subscribe to email updates
Get regular news, analysis and commentary on drug issues in New Zealand. Free.